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Slithering fun in the 209

DENNIS D. CRUZ

Publication for 209 Magazine

Updated:
Dec. 6, 2018, 1:36 p.m.

Snakes, lizards and spiders; oh my! Those are just a few of the exotic reptiles and insects that can be found at Python Ron’s Reptile Kingdom: A Traveling Educational Adventure.

Ron McGee – better known as “Python Ron” – has been educating folks of all ages about “creepy” animals since presenting his first show in 1981. McGee grew up in Snelling and has been handling animals from a very early age.

“My mom always joked that I was chasing critters since I was in diapers. I would wake up in the morning and spend my entire day capturing bugs in jars as a kid. I guess I’ve never really quit,” explained McGee.

During the spring and summer, McGee typically travels to several local libraries throughout Stanislaus, San Joaquin and Merced counties to educate kids on the facts about reptiles of all kinds. During his shows he cautions the parents they should do their research before purchasing any reptile, and also informs them that reptiles are more scared of humans then we are of them.

“The best thing you can do is cover your bases and do the research. Do not take on a reptile that is potentially dangerous or will grow bigger and not have the correct habitat for them,” advised McGee.

McGee is not limited to libraries, as he offers his traveling show at schools, children’s parties, offices and even weddings.

“I’m not officially in their weddings,” McGee said, laughing, “but I have gotten calls to put on shows during weddings for the kids.”

Over the years, McGee’s show has been in high demand not just locally but into the Bay Area as well.

McGee has over 30 different reptiles and critters included in his repertoire. At his shows he is known to bring a variety of reptiles and insects. These include a Madagascar hissing cockroach, tarantulas, black throat monitor, black and white tegu, ball pythons, corn snakes, Burmese pythons, tortoises and more. The newest addition to his show is a black throat monitor lizard named Alfred.

“I have the best job in the world. When I look out to the crowd and see their reactions and hear the ‘oohs and aahs’ it’s the best feeling in the world.”

For more information on Python Ron’s Reptile Kingdom: A Traveling Educational Adventure or to book a show, visit his website at www.pythonron.com or email at ppythonron@aol.com. ■